What Is DBT for Addiction?

Addiction is a multifaceted issue that impacts not only those who struggle with substance abuse but also their families and communities. It often intertwines with a mental health disorder, leading to a cycle of emotional distress, impaired functioning, and strained relationships. The consequences of addiction can ripple through families, causing emotional pain, financial strain, and a breakdown of trust and communication. However, substance use disorders (SUDs) are treatable with professional help — sometimes including the use of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), this therapeutic approach combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices, focusing on balancing acceptance and change. DBT has been successfully adapted to address a range of issues, including addiction. Keep reading to learn more about DBT for addiction recovery. 

How dialectical behavior therapy treats addiction

DBT treats addiction by addressing the emotional and behavioral factors that drive substance use. It helps individuals learn to manage cravings and triggers through skills like mindfulness and distress tolerance, which reduce the urge or need to use substances as a coping mechanism. DBT also focuses on building healthier relationships and improving self-control, helping individuals navigate the challenges of recovery and maintain long-term sobriety.

Overall, DBT provides people with valuable tools to break the cycle of emotional dysregulation and addiction, fostering a greater sense of control over their emotions and behaviors. Through skills training and mindfulness, clients can cultivate healthier coping strategies, ultimately leading to more sustainable recovery and emotional well-being.

Types of DBT-based addiction treatment

DBT can be effectively integrated into many addiction treatment programs to provide a comprehensive approach to recovery. Key areas where DBT is utilized include:

Residential treatment programs

In inpatient settings, DBT helps individuals manage severe addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. The structured environment allows for intensive skills training and support, facilitating significant progress in managing cravings and emotional regulation.

Outpatient therapy

DBT is used in outpatient settings for those who have completed residential treatment or prefer to stay in their community. This can include more intensive options, like intensive outpatient programs, or once-weekly individual therapy with a DBT therapist. Outpatient therapy provides flexibility while offering continuous support and skill development to maintain recovery and handle daily life challenges.

Group therapy 

DBT often involves group therapy sessions where clients engage in skills training. In these settings, participants learn essential DBT skills, such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, through interactive exercises and discussions. Group therapy fosters a sense of community and support, allowing those to share their experiences and learn from one another. This collaborative environment can enhance motivation and provide valuable peer feedback.

Benefits of dialectical behavior therapy for addiction recovery

DBT provides a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery by addressing the emotional and behavioral factors that contribute to substance use, promoting resilience, and fostering healthier interactions. Here are several key advantages of using DBT in addiction treatment:

1. Improved emotional regulation

DBT equips individuals with skills to better understand and manage intense emotions. By learning how to identify and cope with emotional triggers without resorting to substance use, individuals can achieve greater emotional stability and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

2. Enhanced coping skills

Through DBT, individuals gain practical tools for dealing with stress and cravings. Techniques such as distress tolerance and mindfulness help individuals remain grounded during challenging moments, allowing them to handle high-pressure situations without turning to drugs or alcohol.

3. Better relationship management

DBT emphasizes interpersonal effectiveness, teaching individuals how to communicate more effectively and establish healthier relationships. Improved relationship skills can lead to stronger support networks, which are crucial for sustaining recovery and navigating life’s challenges.

Additional addiction treatment options

In addition to DBT, several other addiction treatment options or other kinds of substance abuse treatment programs may be helpful for people struggling with SUD: 

Other therapies

Therapy is a foundational element in addiction treatment, offering a structured setting where individuals can explore and address the complex factors contributing to their substance use. This approach provides a supportive environment where clients can delve into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, helping them understand the root causes of their addiction. Therapists employ various methods to assist individuals, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on altering negative thought patterns and behaviors that fuel addiction. Additionally, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) encourages clients to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment and commit to actions that align with their core values. Through therapy, individuals can develop effective coping strategies, enhance self-awareness, and build resilience, all of which are crucial for sustaining long-term recovery.

12-step programs

12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offer a structured and community-driven approach to addiction recovery. These programs are based on a series of 12 steps that guide individuals through a process of personal growth and self-improvement. The steps emphasize admitting powerlessness over addiction, seeking spiritual support, making amends for past wrongs, and helping others who are struggling. Participants attend regular meetings where they share experiences, provide mutual support, and build a network of individuals committed to recovery. The sense of community and shared experience in 12-step programs can provide significant encouragement and accountability, making it a valuable resource for many individuals in their journey toward sobriety.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines the use of medications with behavioral therapies to treat SUDs. MAT aims to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse by using medications that target specific aspects of addiction. For example, methadone and buprenorphine are commonly used to treat opioid addiction, helping to stabilize individuals and reduce opioid use. Naltrexone, another medication used in MAT, blocks the effects of opioids and can reduce the desire to use not only opioids but also alcohol. By integrating these medications with counseling and therapy, MAT provides a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. This combined approach can enhance the effectiveness of treatment and support individuals in achieving and maintaining recovery.

Get help with Charlie Health

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions, including substance abuse treatment. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With treatment, addiction recovery is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.